GoodUse Program to help Nonprofits Improve Facility Efficiency

The GoodUse Grant Program, administered by Southface Institute and supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Energy through the Renew America’s Nonprofits Program, provides matching grants to nonprofit organizations for energy efficiency upgrades to existing buildings. This initiative helps nonprofits reduce utility expenses and improve sustainability, allowing them to reinvest cost savings into mission-driven programs. Nonprofit organizations in eligible geographic areas—including the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Southwest Florida regions—can apply for funding, provided they meet specific criteria. Eligible nonprofits must be 501(c)(3) organizations that either own or hold long-term leases (5+ years) on the buildings where renovations will occur. Only existing buildings are eligible, and renovations must not require a ground disturbance permit. Religious organizations are eligible if 50% or less of the facility is used for religious activities, and their programming must be broadly accessible. The program supports projects that include a wide variety of energy efficiency measures, such as HVAC upgrades, lighting, thermostats, insulation, and building automation systems. Projects that result in lower utility bills are favored, though solar projects are specifically excluded. To ensure success, Southface conducts onsite assessments and provides detailed project recommendation reports with savings estimates. Final inspections ensure proper installation and project impact. Grant funding varies by region and organizational budget. For example, in the Southeast, nonprofits with annual budgets under $1 million may receive up to $100,000 with a required cost share of $25,000. In the Mid-Atlantic, funding caps at $40,000 with required cost shares of up to $80,000 based on organizational size. All awarded projects must set up and maintain an ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager account and input 12 months of utility data prior to the award date. Federal funds may not be used as the cost-share component. The Spring 2025 application deadline is April 11, with reviews occurring from April 14 to May 29 and award announcements scheduled for May 30. Additional grant cycles are anticipated in Fall 2025 and Spring 2026, with specific dates to be determined. Applications must include facility information, project details, and documentation verifying eligibility. Southface Institute offers technical assistance throughout the process and remains engaged post-project to monitor and support long-term outcomes. All participating organizations must comply with applicable federal, state, and historic preservation regulations including Davis-Bacon and NEPA guidelines.